Actor Vijay launches political party today, in Tamil Nadu, large cutouts seen everywhere
In Tamil Nadu, actor Vijay, fondly known as "Thalapathy," held his first major political conference for his newly launched party, Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK), or the “Victorious Tamil Nadu Party.” At Vikravandi, thousands gathered to support Vijay, who aims to shake up the state’s political landscape by challenging the Dravidian heavyweights DMK and AIADMK in the upcoming 2026 Assembly elections.
Vijay's conference drew crowds that filled the venue, with fans and supporters eagerly anticipating his vision for the state. The actor’s rise in politics has been closely watched since his party’s debut, especially given TVK's recent success in the 2021 local body polls, winning 129 of the 169 seats it contested.
Strengthening TVK’s Political Identity
During the conference, Vijay emphasized TVK's slogan, "Prappokkum Yellam Uyirkkum" ("All Are Born Equal"), which hints at the party’s dedication to social justice and inclusivity. In a symbolic gesture, large cutouts of BR Ambedkar and Dravidian icon EV Ramasamy Periyar were placed alongside Vijay’s image, underscoring his alignment with egalitarian values. At the event, Vijay revealed the Kolgai Pragadanam, or Proclamation of Ideology, which will guide TVK’s policies and differentiate it from established parties.
Youth Support and NEET Opposition
Youth form the core of Vijay's support base, an asset he aims to leverage in his campaign. Additionally, Vijay’s stance on the NEET exam—a controversial issue in Tamil Nadu that has seen significant opposition due to its impact on local medical aspirants—aligns with the sentiments of many in the state. This position may further bolster his appeal among young voters, a demographic that resonates with his activism and is eager for policy reforms.
Political Symbolism and Strategy
TVK’s newly launched flag, unveiled in August, features a red-yellow-red design with a Vaagai flower encircled by stars and elephants, rooted in Tamil cultural symbolism of victory. This new identity allows the party to comply with Election Commission standards and expands beyond its origins as Vijay’s fan club. Posters depicting Vijay as a "reliable star" and "future CM" have fueled discussions about his potential to lead Tamil Nadu.
Building a Political Legacy
Following in the footsteps of Tamil cinema legends like M.G. Ramachandran (MGR) and the late Jayalalithaa, Vijay is the latest cinema figure to enter politics with substantial public backing. While Kamal Haasan and Vijayakanth made similar moves, Vijay’s entry introduces a renewed dynamic, particularly with the upcoming Assembly polls where the resurgent BJP under K Annamalai is also vying for influence.
Challenges and Future Prospects
As TVK positions itself as a viable alternative to the Dravidian parties, Vijay faces the challenge of converting his popularity into a sustainable political movement. Observers will continue to monitor his strategies, especially as he strives to rally broad support while maintaining his star power in the evolving political landscape of Tamil Nadu.